Wallingford’s Pickleball Clinics: On a vibrant summer Wednesday, the unmistakable sound of Pickleball echoed across the courts of Gaylord Hospital in Wallingford, Conn. The latest Adaptive Pickleball Clinic saw 20 participants, including players and volunteers, coming together to embrace this fast-growing sport. The event highlighted Pickleball’s expanding reach, especially among those navigating life after disabilities. The Gaylord Sports Association, led by program manager Katie Joly, has been instrumental in organizing these clinics, which are drawing an increasing number of enthusiasts to the courts.
Inclusive Play and Inspirational Stories
Katie Joly elaborated on the inclusive nature of the sport: “We may have someone who has had a spinal cord injury and playing from a wheelchair or had a traumatic brain injury or someone with an amputation or a stroke. The great thing about Pickleball is it can be played by anyone of any ability.”
Among the participants was Kelly McDermott from Hamden, who, despite battling cancer and undergoing dialysis, continues to play Pickleball from a wheelchair. Her determination serves as a powerful testament to the sport’s capacity to accommodate diverse needs.
Kelly McDermott’s Courage and Ongoing Challenge
McDermott’s resilience shines through as she navigates her current health challenges. “I’m still playing, I have a shunt in my arm and I’m currently on dialysis. I go to dialysis Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, and I’m not letting that stop me. I’m in need of a living kidney donor,” she shared. Her ongoing quest for a kidney donor continues off the court, in collaboration with Gaylord Hospital and Yale-New Haven Hospital.
A Call to Action
The motto of the Gaylord Sports Association, “Think Possible,” encapsulates their philosophy of building ability and inclusivity. For those interested in supporting McDermott’s search for a donor, contacting Yale-New Haven Hospital is encouraged.
News in Brief: Wallingford’s Pickleball Clinics
The Adaptive Pickleball Clinics at Gaylord Sports Association in Wallingford, Conn., continue to draw participants with diverse abilities. On a recent Wednesday, 20 players and volunteers gathered to embrace the sport. Katie Joly, program manager, emphasizes Pickleball’s inclusivity for all abilities.
Kelly McDermott, a participant battling health challenges, remains active in the sport despite needing dialysis and seeking a kidney donor. Joly’s motto, “Think Possible,” shows the commitment to ability and inclusivity. Those interested in aiding McDermott’s search for a donor should contact Yale-New Haven Hospital.
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